In this episode of Flavors Unknown, I sit down with Chef Sean Nguyen, one of the chefs helping redefine Orlando’s culinary landscape through precision, restraint, and deep respect for Japanese cuisine.
Chef Nguyen shares the story behind Domu, the restaurant that brought his dream to life — and the philosophy that guides his growing portfolio of concepts, from an intimate standing sushi bar to the painstaking pursuit of the perfect gyukatsu cut. Together, they explore why certain signature dishes endure, how cocktails become part of the narrative, and what it takes to balance innovation with consistency across multiple restaurants.
This conversation goes beyond trends and accolades to examine research and development, team trust, cultural interpretation, and the evolving definition of success in today’s culinary world.
What you'll learn from Chef Sean Nguyen
- Why precision sits at the heart of Japanese cuisine
- How Domu became a personal and professional turning point
- The importance of protecting signature dishes over time
- How cocktail pairings are developed collaboratively with bar teams
- What makes a standing sushi bar such a unique dining experience
- Why gyukatsu required years of research before launching
- The challenges of growing new concepts without neglecting existing ones
- How R&D sessions fuel long-term culinary innovation
- Why building a trustworthy team matters more than constant expansion
- How Chef Sean Nguyen defines success today — beyond stars and awards
Episode Timeline
- 03:08 — The essence of Japanese cuisine and precision
- 05:56 — Exploring Chef Sean Nguyen’s restaurant concepts
- 09:00 — Signature dishes and long-term culinary inspiration
- 11:51 — Cocktail pairings and collaboration with bar managers
- 14:55 — The unique experience of a standing sushi bar
- 17:58 — Gyukatsu and the pursuit of perfection
- 20:59 — Balancing new ideas with established restaurants
- 23:55 — Research and development as a creative engine
- 26:59 — Building and trusting the right team
- 29:56 — Defining success in the culinary world
- 33:01 — Dining recommendations in Orlando
- 36:01 — Guilty pleasures and culinary dreams
- 38:58 — Final thoughts and closing reflections
Beyond the Mic: My Stories in Print
A Taste of Madagascar: Culinary Riches of the Red Island invites readers to join me on his unforgettable journey across the island of Madagascar, where a vibrant culture and stunning ecosystem intertwine to create an extraordinary culinary experience. Explore the unique ingredients and traditions that define Madagascar and discover their profound impact on the global culinary landscape. Alongside the captivating stories, the book presents a collection of exciting recipes that showcase the incredible flavors and ingredients of Madagascar.
Publication date: Tuesday, January 27, 2026
Pre-order the book here!
“Conversations Behind the Kitchen Door” is my debut book, published in Fall 2022. It features insights from chefs and culinary leaders interviewed on the Flavors Unknown podcast, offering a behind-the-scenes look at creativity, culture, and the future of the hospitality industry.
Get the book here!
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